Henry blames Tuchel's early defensive shift for England's 2-1 World Cup semifinal loss to Argentina

Thierry Henry criticized Thomas Tuchel's decision to switch to a defensive five-man formation immediately after Anthony Gordon's halftime goal gave England a 1-0 lead against Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semifinal. Henry said Tuchel should have kept Marcus Rashford ready to come on before Gordon scored, instead of going defensive too soon.

England appeared headed for their first World Cup final since 1966 after Gordon's 46th-minute goal, but Argentina equalized through Enzo Fernandez under relentless pressure. With six defenders on the field and no attacking options, Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in stoppage time despite late substitutions of Rashford and Ivan Toney.

Henry told FOX Sports: "We need to evaluate the situation because Marcus Rashford was meant to come on just prior to Anthony Gordon’s goal. Once Gordon scored, the shift to a back-five occurred, which seemed premature." He argued England lost by going defensive too early against Argentina.

For Nigerian football fans who remember the 1986 "Hand of God" controversy, this loss continues England's World Cup misery against their rivals. The analysis highlights a tactical lesson: maintaining attacking intent after taking the lead against strong opponents like Argentina is crucial for tournament success.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/16/world-cup-thierry-henry-pinpoints-why-argentina-beat-england-2-1/